Saint John Service of Remembrance

07-Nov-2014

Thousands of citizens are expected to attend the City’s Service of Remembrance to be held at Harbour Station, 99 Station Street, Saint John, NB, Tuesday morning, November 11th. Doors will open to the general public at 9:00 am and attendees are requested to be seated by 10:15 am.

Since 2014 marks the 100th anniversary of the start of World War One, the poem “In Flanders Fields” will be read at this years’ Service by Saint John poet, Dr. Robert Moore. The poem, written during World War One by Canadian physician Lieutenant Colonel John McRae, was inspired after he presided over the funeral of friend and fellow soldier, who died in the Second Battle of Ypres. Its references to the red poppies that grew over the graves of fallen soldiers resulted in the remembrance poppy becoming one of the world's most recognized memorial symbols for soldiers who have died in conflict.

2014 is also the 75th anniversary of Canada’s entry into the Second World War.

In addition to the music, prayers, and hymns that form a major part of ceremony, there will also be the traditional two-minutes of silence followed by the laying of official wreaths. All other wreaths from businesses, organizations, associations, and individuals, are requested to be laid at the main Cenotaph in King’s Square immediately following the Central Service and Parade at Harbour Station.

Canadian singer/songwriter Terry Kelly will be in attendance and will perform his popular and moving tune, Pittance of Time ‘live’ just minutes prior to the commencement of the official programme. Ceremonial music for the event will be provided by the 3rd Field Artillery Regiment Band, the Simonds Lions Caledonian Pipe Band, and a 100-voice choir. “The act of remembrance on this important date is what is important. Recognizing “Our Fallen” of past and present conflicts and paying our respects to those who are still with us is what counts,” said Lt. Bernard Cormier, Chairman of the Saint John Remembrance Day Committee.

The Saint John Parking Commission will offer free parking in the Peel Plaza Parking Garage for those attending the Remembrance Day Ceremony at Harbour Station. The garage gates will open shortly before 8:00 a.m. and close at 2:00 p.m.

The garage can be accessed from both Carleton Street and Sewell Street. It is fully accessible, with two elevators that service all levels.